Chermayeff & Geismar

Chermayeff and Geismar is a New York City design firm established in 1958. Led by Ivan Chermayeff and Thomas Geismar, the firm was one of the first to streamline the design process and create cohesive corporate identities for their clients. The firm’s work for large corporations now defines corporate design of the second half of the 20th century.

Chermayeff and Geismar has partnered with PanAm, NBC, PBS, Chase Bank, National Geographic, Barneys New York, Xerox, National Geographic, Mobil Oil Corporation, and other global businesses. Included in their work are such ubiquitous symbols as the NBC peacock and the Chase Bank logo. Later work includes a partnership with Armani Exchange and the redesign of the Library of Congress logo.

The firm’s long-standing relationship with Mobil resulted in a corporate identity program known for its consistency and high standards. All elements of the company, including corporate facilities, stations, lettering, products, advertisements, sponsorship, and periodicals were envisioned through Chermayeff and Geismar’s design sensibilities. The aim of this pursuit was to make Mobil “look like the best-run oil company in the world.”

Highlights of Chermayeff and Geismar's work for Mobil include the Mobil logo with the iconic red "O," visionary gas station design, adaptation of the Pegasus logo, and the selection of Mobil's fine art collection. Chermayeff and Geismar’s relationship with Mobil lasted from 1963 to 1998.

Sources:

Herrera, P., Lightbown, M.J., & McQuade, W. (1967). The graphic art of corporate image. Fortune, July, 127-130.

Wide Eye Creative (2011). Chermayeff & Geismar. Retrieved from http://www.cgstudionyc.com/

From the guide to the Chermayeff & Geismar Records 2005-236., 1963-1997, (Dolph Briscoe Center for American History, The University of Texas at Austin)